Exodus 31-32

“I, the Lord, sanctify you” (31:13).  Moses went up the mountain to meet with God so that he could receive instructions (the Law) for the whole community.  God had rescued Israel and promised them a home, and now He explained how to live as His people, reflecting His character. However, with Moses gone more than a month, the people began to doubt (ch 32), and they wanted a quick, visible sign of security.  So Aaron made them golden calves, and they traded their invisible, glorious God for “gods of gold” (32:31).

The Israelites were “stiff-necked” (32:9), like all of us, not realizing the glorious relationship God offered them.  Our “gods of gold” are worthless compared to Him.